A group of cancers that affect the mouth, tongue, throat, voice box, nose, sinuses, and salivary glands. Tobacco and alcohol are the leading causes, while HPV infection is increasingly linked to throat cancers. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes and preserve speech and swallowing functions.
Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the tissues and organs of the head and neck region, excluding the brain and eyes. These cancers commonly arise from the squamous cells lining the mouth, throat, and voice box. The most common sites include the oral cavity (mouth), oropharynx (tonsils and base of tongue), larynx (voice box), hypopharynx, nasopharynx, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and salivary glands. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection are major risk factors. At MDCC, Alwar, Dr. Karamvir Yadav offers comprehensive diagnosis, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and rehabilitation services for all stages of head and neck cancers.
Affects lips, tongue, gums, floor of mouth, and inner cheeks. Often linked to tobacco and betel nut use.
Occurs in the tonsils and base of tongue. HPV-positive cancers generally have better outcomes.
Arises behind the nose and above the throat. Often associated with EBV infection.
A rare cancer affecting major or minor salivary glands. Requires specialized treatment.
Small localized tumor without lymph node involvement. Usually highly curable with surgery or radiation.
Larger tumor or limited spread to nearby lymph nodes. Requires multimodal treatment.
Advanced local disease or distant metastasis involving lungs, bones, or other organs. Requires comprehensive treatment including systemic therapies.
Primary treatment for many head and neck cancers. May include tumor removal, neck dissection, and reconstructive surgery.
Checkpoint inhibitors such as Pembrolizumab and Nivolumab improve survival in recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancers.
Cetuximab targets EGFR-positive cancers and may be used alongside radiation or chemotherapy.
Highly effective for early-stage disease and often combined with chemotherapy for advanced cancers.
Imiquimod cream, 5-Fluorouracil, photodynamic therapy for superficial BCC and actinic keratosis.
Used with radiation (chemoradiation) or for recurrent and metastatic disease. Common drugs include Cisplatin, Carboplatin, and 5-FU.